Announcing NCIL Policy Internship Program!

The National Council on Independent Living (NCIL) is announcing 2 internship positions at our headquarters in Washington, DC. The NCIL Policy Internship Program is open to students and individuals pursuing a career in a field relevant to NCIL interests, particularly Independent Living and disability advocacy. Although not a requirement, preference shall be given to individuals with disabilities. This program will provide real Washington policy experience to participants at a highly respected national organization.

NCIL is the longest-running national cross-disability, grassroots organization run by and for people with disabilities. Founded in 1982, NCIL represents thousands of organizations and individuals including: Centers for Independent Living (CILs), Statewide Independent Living Councils (SILCs), individuals with disabilities, and other organizations that advocate for the human and civil rights of people with disabilities throughout the United States.

The program includes 2 internships, with positions lasting from January 15th – May 15th, and September 1st – December 15th. Interns are required to work 10-15 hours each week based out of NCIL headquarters in Washington, DC; actual schedule and hours to be negotiated with the Executive Director.

Although internships are unpaid, NCIL will cover the cost of all job-related travel to meetings, and assist interns with post-graduation job placement at related organizations. NCIL will also assist students seeking academic credit if the opportunity exists at their school. Successful candidates completing the internship program will gain valuable policy experience in Washington, and will be ideal candidates for open positions at NCIL, CILs, and other advocacy organizations across the country.

Qualifications:

Strong interest in disability rights
Basic knowledge of the legislative process and governmental structures
Ability to express ideas clearly and concisely through writing
Ability to collaborate with others
Experience with computers and internet databases

Responsibilities:

Learn about the Independent Living philosophy, related organizations, laws, and government agencies
Provide general support for NCIL committees and subcommittees
Monitor media resources daily for information relevant to NCIL committees and subcommittees
Attend and report on congressional hearings on Capitol Hill
Attend inter-organizational and governmental meetings
Develop materials for membership dissemination, including NCIL’s Weekly Advocacy Monitor (WhAM)
Assist with the development of NCIL’s media resources
Organize and develop original informational material for NCIL’s new website
Manage NCIL Facebook page
Update congressional member and staff contact information
Assist with NCIL Annual Conference
Additional duties as assigned by the Executive Director

To Apply: Please email a cover letter, resume, and letter of recommendation to Austin Walker at austin@ncil.org.